Women: Consider HVAC/R School

The HVAC/R field is one that affects just about every individual in the US today. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration reaches people in their home, school and work environments. The HVAC/R industry has been nearly exclusively male-dominated since its inception; however, women seeking to enter a field where they can work with their hands and put their mechanical knowledge to practical use may consider HVAC school as an option.

What Does an HVAC/R Technician Do?

HVAC/R technicians install, maintain and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. On any given day, an HVAC/R technician could work inside a grocery store repairing freezer cases or walk-in cold storage, spend all day on the roof of a public building installing a new air conditioning system or replace faulty duct work in a basement. HVAC work can be physically demanding, but every day can also bring something different, although some HVAC/R technicians do choose to specialize in one area. HVAC/R technicians have to read blueprints, be proficient at math and learn skills such as brazing (a type of welding with copper tubing). Brazing is necessary for installation and repair jobs. HVAC/R is an excellent career path for a woman who enjoys working with mechanical things, doing physical work, and meeting new challenges every day.

How Does a Woman become an HVAC technician?

A woman wishing to enter the HVAC/R field should have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Classes include technical math, electrician training for HVAC/R systems, refrigeration systems, heating and air conditioning systems and EPA Recovery Certification. EPA Recovery Certification ensures that technicians are trained in the proper handling and disposal of refrigerant coolants and other chemicals. After training in school, depending upon state regulations, a technician may need to find an apprenticeship with a company that is recognized by a nationally-recognized trade organization. After completing an apprenticeship, which can last from two to four years, a certified HVAC/R technician may work in their own business or for another company. Some states require technicians to pass a test to become licensed.

For a woman who doesn’t want to sit behind a desk all day, the HVAC/R field offers a chance to get out into different environments, work with her hands and meet and solve new challenges every day. HVAC/R school is an excellent option for women graduating from high school or considering a new career path.

Contact RSI Today

For more information on HVAC classes and training, please contact The Refrigeration School today or visit us online at www.rsi.edu. We are available to answer any questions you have about career training in the HVAC/R field.

Sources:
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-does-an-hvac-technician-do.htm
http://careerplanning.about.com/od/occupations/p/HVAC_technician.htm
http://www.ehow.com/how_2068870_become-hvac-technician.html

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